MINEOLA, N.Y. (AP) — A federal agency says a New York healthcare firm forced employees to join prayer circles, thank God for having jobs and say “I love you” to co-workers and managers.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed a discrimination lawsuit Wednesday against United Health Programs of America and its parent company, Cost Containment Group.
The EEOC says the Long Island company required employees to practice a belief system called “Onionhead.” It includes praying, discussing personal matters with colleagues and reading spiritual texts.
The agency says employees who objected were disciplined or terminated. It’s asking a judge to stop the practices and ensure employees receive back pay and other compensation.
The companies did not immediately respond to a telephone message.
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